Proverbs 20:2
The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: Whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
In context
1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: And whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise. 2 The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: Whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul. 3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: But every fool will be meddling. 4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; Therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; But a man of understanding will draw it out.
Compare in other versions
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 20:2 in the NIV
A king’s wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 20:2 in the ESV
The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life.